Fundamental Theory of Chinese Medicine

Chinese medicine is based on a theory deeply rooted in traditional Chinese thought. The guiding principle of this theory is that humans obey the same laws as the universe. Thus, the body is traversed by meridian vessels just as the earth is by rivers and streams. The body must rest like nature does at night, etc.

Here are the different elements of the theory of Chinese medicine:

1. The theory of yin and yang: reality can be divided into two opposing but complementary aspects. In Chinese medicine, yin and yang do not denote two forces in conflict that alternately win and lose, but two complementary entities that cooperate.
2. The five phases traditionally called the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. These elements succeed each other in a cycle of generation and a cycle of destruction. This is why they are referred to as phases rather than elements. In Chinese medicine, these five phases explain the relationships between organs as well as their relationships with emotions, foods, and the use of certain acupuncture points.
3. The five organs and the six viscera. In Chinese medicine, this is not only about the purely biological functioning of the organ but also its relationships with emotions, fluids, sensations, and other parts of the body.
4. The breath (qi) that animates and protects the body.
5. Blood and bodily fluids (saliva, tears, etc.) in their physiological functions.
6. The meridian vessels that transport blood and breath throughout the body.
7. The pathogenic agents in Chinese medicine are not comparable to our conception of microbes. They can be external, such as wind, cold, heat, humidity, injuries, food, etc., or internal, primarily emotions.
8. The development of disease.
9. The origin of diseases in Chinese medicine is mainly an imbalance between the various elements mentioned above.
10. The principles of disease prevention. Chinese medicine places great importance on the adequacy of lifestyles with natural laws.